OAR 333-077-0045: Return of License and Closure of Birthing Center

(1) If a birthing center's license is suspended or revoked, or if a birthing center decides to permanently close, the license certificate in the licensee's possession shall be returned to the Oregon Health Authority (Authority) immediately. (2) If a birthing center voluntarily closes, at least 30 days prior to closure, it shall notify the public by: (a) Issuing a press release to multiple media outlets; (b) Updating the birthing center website; and (c) Posting information through social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter), if such applications are used by the birthing center. (d) Information posted on the website, through social media, and released to media outlets shall include information about how a client or a client's legal representative may obtain their medical records. (3) A birthing center that decides to voluntarily permanently close shall notify the Authority at least 14 calendar days prior to the closure and submit plans for the orderly transfer of the clients and the storage and disposal of medical records. Medical records not claimed must be retained for the time period specified under OAR 333-077-0130, and then may be destroyed. (4) The Authority may deny a birthing center the ability to surrender their license in lieu of an investigation or to avoid an administrative action.